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Abstract

Intraocular surgery is usually performed under stereoscopic guidance using a surgical microscope. The surgeon is usually able to see intraocular structures through a clear cornea. However, when the optical clarity of the cornea is severely compromised, visualization of the retina and other intraocular structures is very difficult or impossible. Poor visualization of intraocular structures during surgery is associated with an increased risk for surgical complications and subsequent irreversible vision loss. Minimally-invasive needle-size endoscopic tools are currently used to aid intraocular surgeries. However, they lack a stereoscopic view, and therefore the manipulation of the surgical tools within the surgical field becomes very challenging. As a result, very few eye surgeons use these tools. To address this problem, Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) is developing a novel stereo-endoscopy approach that can be used for intraocular surgical guidance. In addition to the stereoscopic view, an OCT channel is included to examine tissue morphology. The Phase I study demonstrated technical feasibility. Advanced engineering design and manufacturing, as well pre-clinical testing in collaboration with Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA is being proposed for the Phase II program. Furthermore, preliminary steps for technology commercialization will be taken.